Determinants of Youth Unemployment in the Case of Kellem Wollega Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Unemployment is a macroeconomic problem that disturbs people most directly and strictly. The younger generation is exposed more by unemployment compared to adults due to different aspects. This study designed to identify the major determinants of youth unemployment in Kellem Wollega Zone. The research has employed descriptive and explanatory research design in this study, a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed. The data was collected by designating questionnaires to an overall number 366 youth by means of multi stage sampling technique in five selected kebeles. Descriptive and logistic regression model were used to analyze the collected data. The result from the study indicated that approximately one third of the respondents were employed, whereas the remaining two third was unemployed. The result of binary logistic regression analysis indicated that Sex, work experience, educational level of youth, Access to credit and attitude to words own Job had significant effect on youth unemployment in Kellem Wollega Zone. However, the variables Age, Marital status of youth and educational level of house hold head was found to be statistically insignificant. It is recommended that, motivating young people to improve their educational attainment, empower women, and participate more in social, economic and political aspects; encourage youth to increase their credit service and accessibility, and improve youth attitudes towards self-employment by providing them entrepreneur training were suggested as recommendations.